Rick Jackson Wins Republican Runoff for Georgia Governor

Rick Jackson, a billionaire healthcare executive, has secured the Republican nomination for Georgia governor. Raised in poverty, Jackson spent part of his childhood in Atlanta’s public housing projects. CBS News projects his victory over Lt. Gov. Burt Jones.

This nomination concludes a particularly contentious primary, marked by two lawsuits, a defamation claim, and a mobile billboard campaign in metro Atlanta. Jackson entered the race in February 2026, investing up to $50 million of his personal wealth, greatly exceeding any other candidate’s spending. Data from AdImpact reveals that over $50 million went towards television ads alone for his campaign.

Jackson’s campaign centered on his personal journey from poverty to success. He grew up in foster care, attended 13 different schools, and lived in Techwood Homes projects before establishing Jackson Healthcare. The company now operates nationwide, serving over 20 million patients and generating over $3 billion annually.

Attorney General Chris Carr, who finished fourth in the primary, endorsed Jackson, calling him a “successful businessman and political outsider” expected to continue Brian Kemp’s legacy. Days before the runoff, Jackson also received an endorsement from Texas Sen. Ted Cruz.

Burt Jones, initially the frontrunner, had support from President Trump, who endorsed him since August 2025 and participated in a tele-rally before the May primary. Jones, a sixth-generation Georgian and a former University of Georgia football letterman, serves as Georgia’s 13th lieutenant governor. The competition between Jackson and Jones was sharply negative. Federal court saw Jackson file a lawsuit against Jones, challenging a fundraising practice that allegedly favored Jones unfairly. A judge halted Jones’ leadership committee’s fundraising, which had amassed $15.9 million.

Jackson also pursued a defamation suit against Jones in Fulton County Superior Court after Jones’ campaign accused Jackson of profiting from Planned Parenthood and aiding in transgender procedures on minors. Jackson refuted these claims as false and strategically damaging.

Both candidates promoted similar policies, such as tax cuts, law enforcement support, combating illegal immigration, and opposing “woke ideology” in schools. The race hinged more on personal stories, political support, and financial backing than on policy differences.

Jackson will compete against Democratic nominee and former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms in the November election.